Lost Tomb of the Knights Templar by Ben Hammott

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Secrets of Rennes-le-Chateau

Praise for Ben Hammott's Lost Tomb of the Knights Templar

"Best non-fiction book ever!"

"This is best book I have read on the Rennes-le-Chateau subject and the most enjoyable non-fiction book I have ever read. Although it seems to have been written for the non-academic reader, it nevertheless is a comprehensive, scholarly approach to a fascinating subject and reveals many new area of research not covered by other books covering this subject. Anyone who subscribes to some of the myths and pseudo histories involving the mystery of Rennes-le-Chateau should read this book, because you will learn something new.
Ben Hammott's writing style makes the book vastly enjoyable, and in many places, very, very, funny. Anyone who has read the book will know what I mean when I mention the Pontils Tomb Night Raid, utterly hilarious.
With the addition of Hammott's humorous, and sometimes ill-fated, journeys through France, it reads like a travel book in places. But this is not a criticism as the trips are very enjoyable and enables the reader to get an idea of the author's character. It also adds to the story Hammott is telling about his research and discoveries over the years. How I would have liked to be with him on some of his trips as they seem to have been very exciting at times.
Because I don't want to spoil the surprise for those who will read the book, I have purposely given nothing away about the book's content. I read it without really knowing much about it, and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and I am sure other readers will also. But I will mention it is an exciting treasure hunt that starts with the deciphering of clues hidden in the decorations of an ancient church dedicated to Mary Magdalene.
At over 600 pages and over 300 images, it is very good value for money. As soon as I started reading I did not want to stop. This is definitely a book that keeps you turning the pages, which is unusual for a work of non-fiction.
Even if you have never heard of, or have no interest in, Rennes-le-Chateau, the Knights Templar, treasure hunting or Mary Magdalene, do not let that put you off reading this book. It is not your typical non-fiction prose, it is so much better. I would recommend this to anyone who wants a thrilling enjoyable read. Learning history has never been so fun.
I can also recommend highly Beginnings: A Hunt for Treasure Becomes a Quest for Truth by Ben Hammott. It's an exciting Archaeological Thriller and is his first novel on the same subject. I bought his Lost Tomb book after reading it."

“I had this book in my non-fiction ‘to review’ pile for a few weeks before I summed up enough enthusiasm to find the time to read it and to be truthful I wasn’t looking forward to the experience. I had reviewed a couple of non-fiction books previously on the subject of Rennes-le-Chateau, the Knights Templar and similar topics, which I remembered as being a few mundane  hours spent forcing myself to turn pages I’d rather not, this is why I was so averse of repeating the process with Ben Hammott’s Lost Tomb of the Knights Templar. However, from reading page one he had me hooked. His writing style is refreshing and very humorous. And yes it may not be to the liking of the purists out there who prefer the information and facts set out in an academic format, but for those of us who like the information delivered in an easy to understand and enjoyable manner, this book delivers on every page. At times the grammar and odd spelling mistake made me cringe, but somehow it fitted in with Hammott’s way of telling his story and is not enough to offend the reader.
First a very brief outline of the mystery Hammott is investigating
A French priest called Abbé Bérenger Saunière (1852-1917) became mysteriously and fabulously rich after finding a hidden parchment in his ancient Church of Mary Magdalene. The rumour is that the mysterious priest embedded clues in his church decorations leading to a treasure or a secret, & the source of his wealth. The area is steeped in history, which includes the Cathars and the Knights Templar – whose fabled vast wealth has never been found – and many think they are linked to the mysterious discovery of the priest Bérenger Saunière. With the chance of what promises to be a great treasure still to be discovered, Ben senses an adventure and sets forth.
The book starts with Hammott travelling to Rennes-le-Chateau in France for the first time after watching a TV documentary on the subject. His chosen mode of transport is an old campervan he purchased from an Aussie couple who had just driven around Europe in it. Armed with an ample supply of English sausages and vodka he is ready for his adventure, and make no mistake about it, Hammott does have an adventure, and he writes in such a way that his readers are able to join him every step of the way. Not to take any importance away from his discoveries, Hammott’s road trips to Rennes-le-Chateau provide light relief from the seriousness of his quest and are among some of my favourite parts of the book. I am not going to spoil the story by revealing what Hammott found in detail, that is a journey you will have to make for yourselves, but as can be assumed from the book’s title, it involves a tomb that may possibly, if everything inside is authentic and contains what the author thinks it might, prove to be a monumental discovery.
You certainly get your money’s worth with the book’s 660 pages and the hundreds - and yes I said hundreds - of photographs incorporated in the book. They especially help to bring the story alive; if Hammott mentions something invariably there is a picture of it included. This is something lacking in comparable non-fiction books. Something that should be an essential prerequisite, as stated by the old adage, ‘a picture paints a thousand words’. The images are not confined to a few pages away from the text you have just read, forcing you to flick through the pages to locate them like in so many books, but on the very same page with the relevant text. This is no mean feat as anyone who has tried formatting their own book in this manner will know only too well. This tells me Hammott has respect for his readers and has tried to accommodate them as much as possible. For this I am appreciative as it makes for a far more enjoyable read.
So to sum up, for a first time author, Hammott has produced a surprisingly enjoyable book. What we have here is a very funny road trip treasure hunting adventure with bouts of excitement and discovery. Add to this the deciphering of clues hidden in the decorations of an ancient French church and old documents that lead to the discovery of ancient artefacts, tunnel exploration and tombs, it is all in all a definite page turner. Even if, like me, you are turned off by the whole Templar/Rennes-le-Chateau Mystery story, don’t let it spoil your enjoyment of reading this book by pushing it aside. Hammott’s book is not like those other books you may have read. You will not be bogged down by long words and academically written prose by the so called ‘experts’, just Hammott’s story as told by him in his way. It would be such a shame if this is Hammott’s only offering to the reading public as I believe he has the makings of a great author inside him and I for one would willingly support him by purchasing his next book, something someone in my position doesn’t normally have to do. The book is doing the rounds of the office at the moment, and so far those that have read it agree with my review. Go on, give the book a try; I doubt you will be disappointed.” (Timesbookcritic UK)

"Hello Ben. I just finished reading your book in January. I am very impressed with it and it was probably my favorite read of 2008! I have been following Bruce and his documentary for about a year and a half now, and was very excited to hear that you were writing a book on the bloodline topic, and your findings in Rennes le Chateau. I think the photos included in your book made me understand the findings in more detail, good job. It was very well written, and I thoroughly enjoyed your sense of humor throughout the book, regardless of the seriousness of the topic. It truly is an incredible journey you have been on, and I hope it is not the end for you. Congratulations on your findings, on your book, and everything else, and best wishes for you and your discovery in the future." (Josh Speers)

"Hi Ben! Just finished the book, and i must say that i am quite amazed. As a reader of the RLC mystery for several years, i not afraid to say, that your discoveries gives the mystery a whole new dimension. A journey filled with excitement!" (HD - Denmark)

"I was a skeptic, and then I read your book, I am a skeptic no longer. I absolutely loved the book and your writing style. What an exciting quest you have been on and thank you for sharing it." (DW Canada)

"Hi Ben, I just finished your book, I love it, fascinating & fun." (JG - UK)

"Loved the book. Very interesting and very easy to read. The 100's of photo really brought the story alive. I bought your book, Lost Tomb of the Knights Templar, after watching the Bloodline movie and boy am I glad I did. It fills in a lot of stuff not included or just hinted at by the movie. The clue solving was amazing. Great stuff Ben. You get 10/10 from me.” (ST - UK)

"I've found your book to be very informative and entertaining. I enjoy very much the way you have told your story." (Mario-Australia)

"...very interesting... I recommend this book to anyone interested in the Rennes-le-Chateau mystery." (LH-USA)

"Congratulations! Absolutely amazing! I love it! Well done Ben, well done!" (Holger - Germany)

"... one of the best books I have read in many a year... It is always a good sign that I didn’t want to put the bloody thing down... it was like I was also there on your journey, experiences and discoveries. So I would just like to thank you in a big way as been waiting for something like this for many a year, well since I read The Holy Blood and Holy Grail." (Ali New - Zealand)

"One of the best books I have read...Beg, borrow or buy this book... you will not be disappointed". (Alan Scott - France)

"Great book, buy it!" (Shadowfox - UK)  -  "Fantastic book, well done Ben." (T.P - USA)

1000th copy of Lost Tomb of the Knights Templar sold

2000th copy of Lost Tomb of the Knights Templar sold

Praise for Ben Hammott's Beginnings Novel

Amazon Reviews

"An Exciting Archaeological Thriller - I labeled this review as 'An Exciting Archaeological Thriller' because this is just what it is. Beginnings, book 1 of 'the Tomb, the Temple, the Treasure,' is one of those books you just don't want to put down. I read it in one sitting. It is also one of those great reads you don't want to end and luckily as it is the first part, it will continue.
There has been a plethora of archaeological thrillers released over the past year or so, some by well known authors, but many have failed to live up to their back cover description.
This is Ben Hammott's first novel, however he has written some non-fiction books, including the exciting Lost Tomb of the Knights Templar: Rennes-le-Chateau Secrets and Discoveries. Yes you read correctly, I did describe a non-fiction book as exciting because Lost Tomb is not your normal non-fiction prose. It is written in a very humorous style, so much so you will find yourself laughing out loud in places. This though does not distract from the seriousness of the subject though. But I digress. I bought Hammott's Beginning book on the strength of my enjoyment reading his Lost Tomb book which Beginnings is based on.
The book starts with the building of Solomon's Temple and then carries on through the fall of Jerusalem, that involves the Copper Scroll found at Qumran, and then later the crusades and the Knights Templar's and their mysterious digging under the Temple Mount. The story then moves to the present day and the Catacombs under Roslyn Chapel in Scotland.
The book is quite fast paced, easy to read and very atmospheric.
I recommend this book to anyone who likes reading archaeological thrillers, or even just a good thriller. I guarantee if you read Beginnings you will order book 2 - The PRIEST'S SECRET. You can read excerpts of Ben Hammott's books by following the links on his website."

"A Great Read."

"I don't normally buy books by self published authors, although if you are not a celebrity or already published, this seems to be the only option left open to new authors and some have gone on to be picked up by publishing houses, hopefully the same will happen with Ben Hammott, as the book is actually a very good read. As others have mentioned, his writing style is refreshing and makes for an easy read.
Beginnings is an archeological thriller, a name shoved onto many books recently, but Ben's book is exactly what it says on the tin, well the cover, but you know what I mean.

I was so engrossed in the book I read it through in one setting and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. The story is interesting and exciting enough to keep you hooked to the last page, and further. I will also buy the second installment when it is released later this year. If it is as good as part 1, Ben will go even further up my favorite authors list, maybe even to the top. In the meantime I have ordered his Lost Tomb of the Knights Templar: Rennes-le-Chateau Secrets and Discoveries non-fiction book and if it's as good as everyone says, then I am in for a treat.

Beginning's starts with the building of Solomon's Temple and continues through time pausing at the Fall of Jerusalem and the writing of the copper scroll, I really enjoyed this part and the way Ben interweaves fact with fiction, as he does throughout the book, to bring alive what may have taken place. It's hard to say too much without giving the story away, but the outcome was something I didn't see coming. Then the story moves to the 1st crusade and then on to the Catacombs beneath Roslyn chapel. I loved this bit.

There are funny one liners and events that will make you laugh, which all adds to the enjoyment of the book.

Another reviewer mentioned the price, which incidentally is more than I would normally pay, but I was recommended the book. After reading it I agree it was worth the expense and it is a first edition. Hopefully if Ben becomes a famous author my book will be worth a lot more than I paid for it. As it is self published the expense of having the book printed is no doubt reflected in the price. I know this will put some people off of buying the book, but don't be as you will be missing the opportunity of reading a really great story.
I will now be buying other self-published books in the hope I will find another gem like Beginnings.

I have awarded this book the maximum 5 stars and if I could award it more I would. Congratulations Ben on your first novel and please make the next part, the Priest's Secret, just as exciting and enjoyable."

"A Great Read and an Exciting archaeological thriller."

"First things first. I have read Ben Hammott's other Non-Fiction books but this is his first novel. When I first heard Ben was writing a novel based on his previous research and discoveries as revealed in his book Lost Tomb of the Knights Templar: Rennes-le-Chateau Secrets and Discoveries, I wasn't sure how well it would transcend into novel form. However, for those who have read Ben's Lost Tomb book, it is apparent from his humorous and yet enthralling writing style, the basics were there to succeed. I had always thought the way Ben solved the clues in the ancient French church in Rennes-le-Chateau to eventually lead him to a tomb complete with a mummified body and chests of treasure, would make a great movie, but would it make a a great novel? If so has Ben pulled it off?

I received the book a few days ago and as with all of Ben's books, I eagerly unwrapped it from its cocoon of parcel tape, brown paper and bubble-wrap. I grabbed myself a cup of coffee, and after sitting down in my favorite armchair, I began to read.

I was hooked from the first page. As usual, Ben's writing style makes for a pleasant and enjoyable read. I was soon drawn into the story wondering where I was going to be led next, and there were surprises along the way. It certainly is an exciting romp through history, but it all has a purpose, and as the back cover description says, all are connected.
I won't give anything away as I don't wish to spoil others enjoyment finding out what happens themselves, but there is a certain part in Ben's book where the main character has to kill someone, it must be the funniest assault in history. I laughed out loud for ages. I have gone back to read it again on more than one occasion and it always makes me laugh. It is worth the price of the book just for this part. I have had a few guests for dinner and I give them the book to read this section, and wait for the laughter to begin and it always does.
I am not sure how he does it, but even though the book is funny in places, it doesn't distract from the seriousness of the situation or the danger the characters find themselves in.

As you can probably guess, I thoroughly enjoyed Ben's Beginnings book and cannot recommend it enough.
It really is an exciting archaeological adventure that goes places I think no other author has yet trod. If I was pushed, the Roslyn catacombs story was perhaps my favorite section of the book. I was impressed by the way Ben brought together all the different time era's, linking them to what was happening in the present, like a chain of evidence in a crime scene.

Downside - For a paperback novel it is expensive, but please do not let this put you off buying it. I would rather spend my money on a more expensive book that I enjoy reading, than waste money buying two cheaper books that I don't. I don't regret the price I payed one little bit and I guess what you perceive as value for money is what it's all about.

Beginnings is book 1 of the Tomb, the Temple, the Treasure, and you can be certain I will be first in the queue to buy the second installment, the Priest's Secret. I have already read the preview chapters on Ben's website and it promises to be even more enthralling than this one. I can't wait.
Do yourself a favor and give this book a read. Also read Ben's excellent Lost Tomb of the Knights Templar, which I have also reviewed and can highly recommend.

If you like any of Ben's books, please post a review on Amazon as I feel Ben has a lot more books in him yet and the more he writes the more decent reads we can all enjoy. Reading through my review I sound like a publicist for Hammott, but I'm not. I believe a self published writer as good as Ben, needs to be encouraged. I would be very surprised if one or more of his books are not picked up by a large Publishing house, so his self published volumes may soon become collectors items. His first editions may even be worth much more than the cover price one day."